How Does It Work?
The Endocannabinoid system (ECS)
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system made up of three parts:
Cannabinoid Receptors: Found on the surface of cells
Endocannabinoids: Small molecules that activate cannabinoid receptors
Metabolic Enzymes: Enzymes that break down endocannabinoids after they are used
The ECS is the body’s primary regulatory system. It’s an internal balancing mechanism which constantly keeps a range of bodily functions in equilibrium. (Homeostasis)
What the endocannibinoid system regulates
Some functions and processes the ECS regulates include:
- Immune Function
- Sleep
- Mood
- Appetite
- Memory
- Inflammation
- Stress Response
- Skin Health
As you can see, the endocannabinoid system is vital to your overall health and well being. The ECS is active in your body regulating many necessary functions even if you don’t use cannabis.
What triggers the ecs
The endocannabinoid system is very easy to throw out of balance. Life is stressful and our daily routine can take its toll on the system, sending it out of whack and adversely affecting the body’s overall balance. Stress levels, sleep deprivation, diet, and exercise all influence your body’s ECS.
When this balance is disrupted, the ECS pushes endocannabinoids into our system and sends them to the affected areas of our body. There, they signal the receptors to trigger the necessary responses and work to restore Homeostasis. Endocannabinoids are the messengers for the ECS, working directly with CB receptors to “right the ship.”
working with cb receptors
These CB receptors are located throughout our bodies, guarding different cell types and responses. The two main receptors of the endocannabinoid system are CB1 and CB2. The phytocannabinoids within CBD are virtually identical to the endocannabinoids in our bodies and spring into action by beginning to interact with these CB receptors when the system is not balanced.
CB1 receptors are essential for a healthy, well-functioning brain, and are one of the most common receptors in the entire nervous system.
CB2 receptors are most often found on the cells of our immune system. They help moderate inflammation and our immune response to pathogens.
The cannabinoids interact with the receptors much like a lock and key; the receptor is the lock, the cannabinoid molecule is the key. A reaction is triggered when the cannabinoid (key) attaches to the receptor (lock), resulting in an effect on the brain and body.
CBD does not bind directly with either CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it stimulates both to function properly within the body by adjusting them and the way they operate, allowing you to experience the benefits that CBD provides.